968: BEHIND THE SCENES of W2E's Q4 retreat (back in Boston!) w/ Laura Chaves

Discover how to transform your networking approach with insights from Emily Weiner, the dynamic founder and CEO of The Connectors. Emily's diverse career journey, ranging from corporate to nonprofit sectors, and even academia and politics, offers a treasure trove of practical advice on building meaningful professional relationships. Learn how her early experiences in various schools and states honed her ability to create strong communities quickly, setting the stage for her impactful work in connecting people and ideas to drive change.This episode sheds light on the profound distinction between genuine connections and mere transactions, a topic more relevant than ever in our post-pandemic world. With Emily's guidance, you'll understand how intentionality and real care can transform your professional network into a powerful support system. Through compelling personal anecdotes and real-life examples, Emily illustrates how understanding people's motivations and maintaining ongoing, thoughtful engagement can lead to significant opportunities and lasting relationships.Navigating nonlinear career paths and valuing diverse expertise are central themes you'll explore, illustrated by Emily's unique journey from theater and event production to entrepreneurial success. Gain insights into the importance of personalized communication, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, and how collaboration across different sectors can solve complex community challenges. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, Emily’s story and practical tips will inspire you to leverage every interaction as an opportunity for meaningful connection and growth.ABOUT EMILY Emily Weiner, Founder and CEO of The Connectors, is a systems-thinking entrepreneur and business advisor with over 25 years of experience connecting people and ideas to drive change. Leaders value her ability to link individuals and concepts, fostering innovation and impact. Emily has helped thousands, from teenagers to seasoned professionals, discover how to effect change in various roles and sectors. She coaches people to connect with their passions, develop skills, and view societal challenges as entrepreneurial opportunities. Previously, Emily was a founding member of The Lewis Institute at Babson College, growing it into a multimillion-dollar social impact portfolio. Her diverse background includes starting businesses and working across corporate, nonprofit, academic, and political sectors. Emily's expertise lies in fostering intentional relationships and partnerships to unlock new possibilities.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit The Connectors WebsiteFollow The Connectors on LinkedInConnect with Emily on LinkedIn

How can you navigate chaos with clarity and resilience? Join us as we explore this compelling question with Brian Baxter, founder and president of Performance Critical Inc., and a 30-year veteran of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Brian's journey is nothing short of extraordinary, ranging from roles such as patrol trooper and SWAT team member to undercover narcotics agent and senior executive. His service doesn't stop there—Brian also served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and is actively involved in Gentlemen Inc, a nonprofit fighting sexual exploitation. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on evidence-based decision-making in leadership and personal growth.Brian brings a wealth of knowledge on mastering stress and decision-making under pressure. He shares how mentally rehearsing scenarios can transform our responses to challenges, similar to assessing traffic at a green light. We'll discuss cognitive biases, selective attention, and how our goals can skew our perceptions. Brian's strategy of using the acronym WIN (What's Important Now) offers a practical tool for maintaining focus on macro goals while managing details. This episode provides actionable advice on how to train our brains to interpret stress as a challenge rather than a threat, ultimately enhancing our performance.Building rapport and public trust is crucial in both business and law enforcement, and Brian's experiences offer valuable lessons in this area. We'll explore techniques for establishing personal connections and the core values that drive Performance Critical—integrity, objectivity, public service, and extreme transparency. Brian's empathetic approach to conflict resolution, shaped by his past encounters, offers a unique perspective on cultivating trust in high-stakes environments. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs seeking to ground their passion with practical, evidence-based wisdom.ABOUT BRIANBrian Baxter is the Founder and President of Performance-Critical, Inc. a company whose vision is stronger relationships, enhanced universal safety, and reinforced public trust. A retired, 30-year veteran of the Texas Dept. of Public Safety where he served as a patrol trooper, a SWAT team member, an undercover narcotics agent, an organized crime investigator, and a people leader from first-line supervisor to senior executive. Brian has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Applied Psychology and is a combat infantry veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brian also volunteers with a 501(c)3 non-profit organization called, Gentlemen, Inc. whose mission is to eliminate the DEMAND for sexual exploitation by identifying and changing the behaviors that create it.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Performance Critical’s WebsiteFind Gentlemen, Inc on LinkedInFollow Performance Critical on FacebookConnect with Brian on LinkedIn

What if the most powerful leader in your life isn't sitting in the Oval Office, but staring back at you in the mirror? Join our host, Brian Lofrumento, as we challenge conventional notions of leadership amidst the backdrop of recent political events. By asserting that you are the most significant president of your own life, we'll explore how personal empowerment and self-leadership far outweigh the influence of any political figure. Together, we'll dissect themes of freedom, safety, health, wellness, and prosperity, and uncover how these elements can transform your future more than any election result.As the new year approaches, it's time to reconsider who truly amplifies your voice and ability to effect change. Through this Solo Sunday episode, we'll highlight the power of personal choices and the profound impact they can have on your happiness, success, and relationships. With entrepreneurship as a key avenue for innovation, we'll discuss how taking charge of your future can lead to meaningful personal and professional growth. You're invited to step into your leadership role—not just for yourself, but for your community—and embrace the responsibility of shaping your own path as the true commander-in-chief of your destiny.

What if you could turn the holiday season into your most profitable time of the year? Get ready to harness the festive buying spirit as our host, Brian Lofrumento, reveals a strategic roadmap to elevate your business during the bustling holiday period. This Action Saturday episode offers powerful strategies to draw in holiday shoppers and boost year-end sales, whether your offerings are perfect gift items or essential B2B services. Brian encourages you to rethink how your products or services fit into the holiday mold, suggesting creative tactics like introducing gift cards or pitching your services as must-have year-end investments.Listen as Brian shares actionable insights and the transformative power of AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Google Gemini to craft a compelling holiday marketing plan with ease. The key is to not only brainstorm and strategize but to execute your promotional schedule efficiently in the weeks ahead. By aligning with the holiday frenzy, you can significantly enhance your business’s visibility and revenue. Don’t miss your chance to position your business for success as we look ahead to 2025, and learn how to ride the holiday wave effectively with Brian's guidance.

Ready to transform your business operations and scale effectively? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Kat Oldershaw, the brains behind kat&co, a consultancy dedicated to optimizing operations for creative businesses. Kat's fascinating journey from a psychology student at UC Berkeley to an operations guru in the design industry provides invaluable lessons on the importance of streamlined processes. You'll learn how tailored systems not only enhance efficiency and team satisfaction but also support your overarching business goals.Finding the balance between rigidity and flexibility in workflows is crucial for any business, and Kat shares insightful strategies to help you navigate this delicate tightrope. We'll reveal how strategic thinking can trump instant gratification, allowing for better client selection and long-term success. From personal anecdotes to professional advice, discover the tools and tactics that Kat uses, including her go-to Google Suite, to maintain order and clarity in her operations. Plus, we delve into the often overlooked but crucial role of intuition in making sound business decisions.Building a business is an iterative process, and Kat's story brilliantly illustrates this. Learn how to manage evolving websites, offer service packages that don't overwhelm your clients, and address common pain points for clients. Kat's expertise shines as she discusses inefficiencies in systems and the challenges of scaling a team. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights from Kat's entrepreneurial journey!ABOUT KATKat Oldershaw is a California native, creative, and operations specialist. Together (in good company), she started kat&co to respond to the growing need of design operations support in her community.Throughout her career, Kat has managed and directed in multiple creative industries such as Residential Interior Design, Commercial and Hospitality Design, Design + Build, Custom Furniture, and Fine Art.By combining her professional experience with her degree in Psychology from UC Berkeley, Kat is an expert in empathetic leadership and is passionate about creating space for non-traditional business practices.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit kat&co’s WebsiteConnect with Kat on LinkedIn

What happens when a professional musician transitions into the world of clinical counseling and organizational consulting? Meet Taylor Mizuno-Moore, the founder of Mizuno Consulting, whose multifaceted career is as intriguing as it is inspiring. Taylor shares her journey influenced by a multicultural upbringing and a deep passion for community, revealing how she balances multiple identities and passions. We talk about the challenges and triumphs she faced, and how her immigrant family background shaped her path toward helping individuals and organizations achieve sustainable change through a holistic approach.Unlock the secrets to effective goal-setting within both therapy and organizational contexts with Taylor's expert insights. We explore practical steps for defining short-term and long-term goals, understanding client perspectives, and handling discomfort with curiosity. Taylor also delves into her innovative work integrating tattoos and tattoo culture into mental health practices, highlighting how these unique elements contribute to her approach. Emphasizing DEI and human-centered techniques, Taylor's approach to consulting is not only impactful but innovative and refreshing.In the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship, Taylor emphasizes the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and continuous learning. We discuss how societal judgments and expectations can impact self-expression, and why nurturing team relationships and prioritizing colleague well-being are key to running a successful, empathetic business. Taylor's personal anecdotes about embracing failure and finding joy in her passions offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to balance personal interests with professional responsibilities. Don’t miss out on her tips for creating a supportive environment for growth and authenticity in both business and life.ABOUT TAYLORTaylor Mizuno-Moore (she/they) is the owner of Mizuno Consulting. A queer, biracial (Japanese/American) licensed clinical professional counselor, organizational consultant, and musician, Taylor holds degrees from CSULB, UC Irvine, Northwestern, and USC. She completed a Clinical Research Fellowship at Yale University's Child Study Center. Taylor specializes in working with artists, the LGBTQIA+ community, and integrating tattoos with mental health. Her research focuses on implicit bias in organizational efficiency. A member of various professional associations, Taylor has presented at conferences and podcasts. Additionally, she's a professional musician with extensive experience in taiko drumming, having performed at prestigious venues worldwide.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Mizuno Consulting’s WebsiteFollow Mizuno Consulting on InstagramFind Mizuno Consulting on LinkedInConnect with Taylor on LinkedIn

Curious about what makes a truly exceptional leader? Join us as Amanda Love, a leadership expert with two decades of retail experience, shares her captivating journey from high school cheer captain to a mentor at the world's largest retailer. Amanda delves into the traits and skills that define great leadership, with a strong emphasis on curiosity and the will to succeed. Her passion for empowering others to find fulfillment in their professional lives is palpable, and her fresh perspective on the skill versus will concept is invaluable for anyone aspiring to harness their leadership potential.Amanda opens up about her battle with self-doubt and the limiting beliefs that once held her back. She candidly discusses the importance of self-confidence and the drive to influence others, regardless of one's job title or current situation. By shedding labels and embracing a strong support system, including therapy, she transformed her mindset and achieved success. Amanda’s candid account of her journey from self-doubt to self-belief is both inspiring and a vital lesson for future leaders.We also explore the necessity of lifelong learning and accountability in both personal and professional development. Amanda stresses the importance of self-awareness, working with therapists or coaches, and maintaining a curious mindset. Structured programs with guided steps and built-in accountability are key to ensuring progress. With a focus on uncovering hidden strengths within perceived weaknesses, Amanda shares her method of vision generation and goal planning. This episode wraps up with Amanda’s insights on transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the autonomy it brings, and her commitment to supporting women through the Empowered Leadership Circle on Facebook. Don't miss this chance to ignite your leadership journey!ABOUT AMANDAAmanda Love is a “hardscrabble, southern lady” who earned her leadership stripes through high-level strategy and execution at the world’s largest retailer and through learning & development. Uniquely skilled as a leadership mentor, her success has been defined by her commitment to shaping the next generation of business professionals.Over the course of Amanda’s 20-year retail career, she has empowered individuals to reach new heights in their own professional journeys. Her tenacious focus on leadership, coupled with effective team management, has resulted in her successfully designing and executing programs that have empowered individuals and teams to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of today's workforce.LINKS & RESOURCESJoin The Empowered Leadership Circle on FacebookConnect with Amanda on LinkedIn

Imagine you're witnessing the breathtaking transformation of a New England fall for the first time, because Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur's own Laura Chaves did just that, drawing remarkable parallels between the changing seasons and the art of adaptability in entrepreneurship. Broadcasting from the campus of Bentley University during our team's Q4 retreat, we explore how altering our surroundings and pace can invigorate our business strategies and personal growth. Laura's insights into embracing change offer a refreshing perspective on staying dynamic in our entrepreneurial endeavors.Picture yourself in a secluded cabin, enveloped by silence and darkness, finding clarity in the absence of distraction. That’s exactly what we experienced and discussed, contemplating how such environments can foster personal growth and creativity. Stepping away from the usual noise allowed us to rejuvenate our approach to business challenges, such as refining automation processes. The profound impact of in-person collaboration, something that virtual interactions often lack, became evident in sparking fresh ideas and energy.As we reflect on this year's journey, we embrace the unique energy that each season brings to our projects. From the charm of New England's fall to the community-driven values discovered on our travels, we delve into the essence of intentional living and strategic business planning.

Unleash the potential of your brand with an unexpected twist on entrepreneurship. Imagine wearing your business like a badge of honor—literally. This Action Saturday, join our host, Brian Lofrumento, as he reveals how a simple investment in swag can transform your entrepreneurial journey. You'll discover why adorning your logo on everything from laptop stickers to t-shirts isn't just about aesthetics; it's a bold declaration that shouts your business's presence to the world. Through Brian's personal narrative, you'll see how tangible merchandise can boost your confidence, spark conversations, and turn holiday gifting into a strategic brand-building opportunity.

What happens when personal tragedy turns into entrepreneurial triumph? Join us for an insightful conversation with Michelle Henriksen, a trailblazing HR leader who transformed her life's setbacks into a thriving business. After experiencing the loss of her husband and a job layoff, Michelle harnessed her resilience and launched her own agency, honoring her husband's entrepreneurial legacy. Discover the deep personal significance behind her company's name and logo, and hear how she navigated these life changes to build a successful venture from the ground up.Michelle dives into the critical aspects of building a robust HR infrastructure, emphasizing the need for consistent policies and systems to support employee growth and career progression. Her extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions reveals the importance of collaboration within HR teams to seamlessly integrate new companies and harmonize roles and compensation. Michelle's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the intricate balance of managing people issues during organizational transitions.Uncover the less glamorous yet essential side of entrepreneurship as Michelle shares her journey from consultant to business owner. From dealing with billing and logistics to strategic networking, learn how she established her credibility and showcased her expertise through collaborations with major HR organizations. Michelle's story highlights the importance of nurturing professional and personal relationships, leaving us with key advice: become an expert in something and believe in yourself. Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that could propel your own entrepreneurial journey.ABOUT MICHELLEMichelle Henriksen is a dynamic HR leader with 25+ years of global HR experience, advising clients in all aspects of the employee lifecycle with the goal of maximizing efficiencies, leveraging technology, and promoting equitable and consistent employee policies and practices. As a strategic partner to human resources professionals and executive leadership teams, she has assisted organizations in raising performance levels by understanding and mitigating people issues associated with mergers and acquisitions, right-sizing organizations through restructuring/turnaround events, and advising on human resources practices, statutory requirements, and culture when expanding operations internationally. She has spent her career working in both industry and professional services at Accenture, Zulkie Partners, Huron Consulting Group, Walgreens USA, Grant Thornton, and FGMK. In 2022, she founded HG4 Advisory.LINKS & RESOURCESConnect with Michelle on LinkedIn